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What is the genus for this valuable tree species XXXXXX papyrifera?
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The Paper Birch has been a valuable species for the first nation people that used it for it's white water resistant bark. Baskets for boiling water/maple sugar, skin for canoes, covers for shelters, etc. So these trees are better alive than dead. We are getting close the edge of the birch trees range as they like more acidic organic and cooler soil. Unfortunately we are seeing a steady decrease in this species with the introduction of the bronze birch borer and warmer temps. The wood itself is soft and flexible and is also good for firewood.
Form
Height 65' to 70', diameter 14" to 20"; twigs dull orange or red during first winter, later become brown; open crown; grows singly or in clusters.
Bark
Thin, papery; becomes pure white with age, marked by many pores or "lenticels"; separates into thin sheets that often roll up; bark thickens on old trees, becoming dark (nearly black) and scaly.
Leaf
Simple, alternate on stem, length 2" to 3"; oval or heart shaped, pointed, rounded at base, irregularly toothed; becomes thick and leathery in texture; dull on upper side and yellowish green on lower side; turns light yellow in autumn.
Fruit (seed)
Nutlet resembles a cone and contains many tiny seeds; nutlets are tightly grouped in a 1" to 1-1/2" long catkin; ripens in August and September.
Range
Generally abundant throughout the state except the southwest; shade intolerant, fast growing.
Wood uses
Hard, strong, tough, light in weight, brown tinged with red, nearly white sapwood; used for spools, toothpicks, toys, snowshoe frames, handles, paper pulp, flooring, firewood, and interior finish. Years ago, birch bark was extensively used by Native people for canoes and wigwams and for making baskets, cups, bags, and other useful utensils.
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Welcome to the Little Falls Area! We have a series of caches dedicated to the people that have and are making the area a great part of the Minnesota quilt. These caches are placed under the name TeamGeoPilot in honor of our team of Cache Hiders! Enjoy and hopefully you will all be Little Falls experts after you search these out.